Frequently Asked Questions about Homeowner Insurance

Frequently Asked Questions about Homeowner Insurance

Owning a home is part of an American dream. Protecting it from unexpected accidents or natural disasters is one of the reality of home ownership. Before purchasing homeowner insurance in Santa Maria, CA, or where you come from, it’s important to learn the facts about homeowners insurance in order to choose the right type of coverage for your home. Read on to get answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about homeowners insurance.

Frequently Asked Questions about Homeowner Insurance

What is Homeowners Insurance?

Homeowner’s insurance, also called hazard insurance, is a type of insurance policy that protects the home and its contents against potential hazards, damage, or emergencies. This type of insurance usually covers the cost of restoring damage caused by natural disasters, water, or fire and loss of personal property due to theft or destruction.

Do I need to buy a homeowner’s insurance policy?

Unlike car insurance, homeowners are not legally required to purchase a homeowner’s insurance policy. However, most mortgage lenders require homeowners to purchase the minimum amount of insurance coverage before issuing a loan. If you have your home free and clear, you are not required to bring homeowners insurance.

Frequently Asked Questions about Homeowner Insurance

What are the Different Types of Homeowner Insurance?

Since each house is unique, there are several types of homeowner insurance policies designed to meet your home specific needs. Here are some of the most common types of homeowners insurance policies:

Straight replacement coverage: This policy gives you a set amount of money to repair or rebuild your home.
Coverage of guaranteed reimbursable cost: This policy provides the funds needed to completely replace your home regardless of the rise in building costs, inflation, or policy limits.
Flood insurance: This policy provides the funds needed to repair or replace your home if it is damaged by flooding. Standard homeowners insurance policies do not cover water damage caused by waterways or dams.
Earthquake Insurance: This policy provides the funds needed to repair or replace your home if it is damaged or destroyed by the earthquake. Standard homeowners insurance policies do not cover earthquake damage.
Life insurance mortgage: This policy provides the necessary funds to pay off mortgage loans at home in case of death of the home owner.

Frequently Asked Questions about Homeowner Insurance

What Coverage Do I Need?

Since your home is the biggest and most important asset, it is important to purchase adequate insurance coverage to protect it completely against any kind of loss. Most insurance providers recommend buying a policy at least 80% of your home and personal property replacement value indoors. Purchasing additional coverage is highly recommended to ensure your home is properly protected.

What factors affect the homeowners insurance premiums?

Premiums are the annual cost of your insurance policy. The following factors may affect the cost of your homeowner’s insurance premiums:

Features: The age and characteristics of your home including the type of structure, roof, and cable, can all affect the cost of premiums.
Location: Insurance rates may be affected by a particular environment or location that is likely to be exposed to extreme weather.
Protective devices: Smoke detectors, alarm systems, fire extinguishers, sprinkler systems, and deadbolts can lower insurance premiums.
Personal factors: Smokers and individuals with a good credit history may be eligible for a lower insurance premium.
Claim history: Individuals with a history of homeowners’ insurance policy claim may pay a higher premium.

Frequently Asked Questions about Homeowner Insurance

What items are excluded from the homeowners insurance policy?

When shopping for homeowner insurance in Santa Maria, CA, it’s important to understand that the most comprehensive policies have certain restrictions and exceptions. Some of the most common items excluded in homeowner insurance policies include cars, motorhomes, ships, business properties, and pets. Some policies may also provide limited coverage on weapons, jewelry, and silver. Consult an experienced insurance agent can help ensure that you find the right policy for your coverage needs.